On The Homosexuality And Family Senses In Crystal Boys

"Crystal Boys" ( Niozi) by Pai Hsien-yung ( Bai Xianyong) is one of the most important pieces of Chinese homosexual literature. In my thesis, 1 am going to discuss several issues that arise I'rom homosexuality. Homosexuals see their family in the perspective of both love and hatred; they are attempting to overcome the limitation of the traditional family values; confronting the traditional role expectations from the conservative family values to the extensive social values.This thesis is different from the common argument that the conflict between the protagonist and his father is caused by the "normal confrontation and fight of father-son". Because of the unique formation of the Chinese society and religious beliefs, the fami1y has historical ly ful f i lied certain vital functions in the society. Traditionally, the family has been responsible for educating its children to become participating members of their society. The family defines each person's primary roles and status in the society. Family is a social group having specified roles and statuses with ties of blood and marriage. Historically, the Chinese family is strongly patriarchal, with father dominating every aspect of 1 ife. Men have virtual1y complete authority over their wives arid children. Traditionally, the Confucian notions of loyalty and "Xiao"" filial diety", defines the correct behaviour of children towards their family. Heterosexual marriage and procreation are the most important behaviour of "Xiao".In addition to the above exploration of traditional family values, Pai Hsien Yung also deals with the various conflicts facing the homosexuals. From the perspective of male homosexuals, their physical difference from females is their strength; but their sexual preference to other males is their weakness. The conflicts between the two are worth discussing. Facing the difficulties of their sexual prel'erences, they do not want to live in the heterosexual mainstream; but they need to obey their father and follow the traditional expectation of heterosexual marriage and procreation. However, it still needs time to clarify this dilemma. Pai Hsien Yung introduces the story of a gang of young homosexuals, how social pressure and reject ion of their parents force them to become outcasts. This thesis is trying to discuss the questions of "Xiao" and "bu Xiao".